outfit post

3 Outfits for Holiday Inspiration

3 Outfits for Holiday Inspiration | Writing Between Pauses

Another day, another outfit post! Today, I wanted to share 3 outfits I put together inspired by some of my new favorite Christmas songs. I hope you love them as much as I do! 

When it comes to dressing for the holidays, I firmly believe that comfort comes first. Nothing is better than a sweater and jeans combo--but that doesn't mean we shouldn't dress it up a bit. Let's get started. 

1. Candy Cane Lane

This sweater from Topshop is what started it all (just click the name of the outfit to see all of the outfit details). It's absolutely so adorable and perfect for a casual holiday party. Pair with jeans or leggings, boots (heel optional), and a basic bag for a more simple look; you can add jewelry or a scarf as well. 

2. Winter Things

The song "Winter Things" is about enjoying Christmas even if you list somewhere that's warm around the holidays. So, if you're in a warmer climate, this outfit is for you! This dress is a gorgeous Winter white and the pattern is beautiful; I picked a few colors out of it to focus on. If you're the hat wearing kind, adding a beanie and cardigan always makes everything a little more wintery; pair with these gorgeous oxblood flats from Zara and keep your make up simple but bold (like with a metallic oxblood lip). 

3. Snowman

I know, I know, another sweater and jeans combo. But I want you to consider: all white. White fair isle sweater, paired with metallic white shoes and a cute, graphic white bag. Keep your make up simple: blush, pink-mauve lip (Wet'n'Wild Rebel Rose is my favorite), and a gray-toned smoky eye. Simple, chic, and perfect comfy for lounging around the Christmas tree. 

3 Outfits Perfect for the Pumpkin Patch

3 Outfits Perfect for the Pumpkin Patch | Writing Between Pauses

I love going to the pumpkin patch every year. There is a small window of time in Oregon where the leaves are changing and the patches are open--before the rain starts and turns all the pumpkin patches to absolute rivers of mud. Some people don't mind going when it's muddy--but I do! 

Pumpkin Patch Outfits | Writing Between Pauses

However, I made the unfortunate choice when we went the weekend before last of wearing a white sweater. With a toddler. Oops. even though it wasn't muddy, Forrest did end up an absolute mess! And so did I at the end. 

So I put together 3 perfect pumpkin patch outfits that are easy to clean, not white, and great for leisurely finding the perfect pumpkin OR chasing a pumpkin-obsessed toddler around. 

1. Casual Pumpkin Patch

No other responsibilities? Wanting to keep it as comfy as possible? This is the outfit for you. Your favorite skinny jeans, some comfortable brown booties, and a cute graphic t-shirt under a pretty cardigan. (I also love this cardigan from Maurices for this outfit.)  

2. For Running More Errands

If you're going more places than just the pumpkin patch, this is a perfect outfit. Lunch? A winery? Shopping? Playdate? This is the perfect mix of comfortable and fashionable, without being fussy. Knee-high brown boots and a cute, slightly oversized sweater to keep you warm, topped with a scarf and some cute accessories (I love this apple bracelet!). 

3. Family Photos

You're taking this opportunity at the pumpkin patch to get some cute photos. (Genius.) This dress from the GAP is so cute; I love the little bell sleeves and the relaxed fit is perfect for Fall. Add some tights, classic black riding boots, and a scarf to keep things optimally cozy! 

4 Outfits Perfect for Rainy Fall Days

4 Outfits Perfect for Rainy Fall Days | Writing Between Pauses

I love rainy days. It’s not everyone’s favorite thing, but nothing makes me happier when it starts to rain after a long, dry summer. (This may be because of my hyperawareness of forest fires.) The air smells fresh; everything gets dewy; the sound is beautiful. I love rain Sundays spent with a candle burning, watching my favorite movies. I love rainy days in the office getting work done. I love rainy days! 

For blogtober, I thought a post about rainy day outfits would be perfect, especially as we get further into October and the rain really starts to set in. Here are 4 I put together recently that are perfect for every different occasion. 

1. A Rainy Day with Friends 

Do you ever see something (like, say, this dress) that makes you just want to stop everything and buy it? Immediately? This dress is one of those things for me. It’s absolutely so cute—if you have access to New Look and can get this dress, please do so and tell me it if it is absolutely as perfect as I imagine. I love the color. I love the interesting cut. And I love how cute it will look with some plain tights and some knee-high rain boots. I completely imagine this outfit for a day spent out with friends—when it’s rainy, but not too cold yet. Pair with this cute cross body bag with rose gold jewelry, a simple shimmery eye look, and a neutral lip color. 

2. When You Just Stay Inside

How realistic is this for a rainy day outfit!? One of the things I miss about my pre-parenthood life is, honestly, rainy days spent at home by myself. Drinking too much coffee, wearing sweatpants, cleaning the house, and watching terrible movies on TV. This outfit was made with that nostalgia in mind. I love these sweatpants from Madewell—I may be asking for a pair for my birthday. Paired with a cute-and-funny sweatshirt, some cozy socks, and your favorite coffee mug… yeah, the perfect rainy Sunday, can we agree? 

3. Casual Workplace

This isn’t necessarily realistic for everyone in terms of work appropriate attire—but at my workplace, this would be downright fancy. (And I have some substitutions for if you work in a stricter office, don’t worry!) I love the trend of simple, warm sweatshirts; it’s never warm enough in my office. Paired with high waisted jeans rolled up over some cute boots (like these maroon velvet ones), it’s perfect for a simple day look. Add in this amazing coat from Romwe, a messenger bag, and some simple, pink make up and you’re ready for all that rain outside. 

Want to make it a little more office appropriate? Swap the jeans and sweatshirt for a simple white sweater and black skinny trousers. See? It works just as well! 

4. Date Night

Is this the most 90s outfit I’ve ever put together? Yes. Yes, it is. Actually, the trend of square-shaped corduroy skirts is giving me major flashbacks to the mid-2000s. I think I wore a gray, corduroy skirt that was three sizes too big to my first date with my now-husband. Yikes. 

I love this dusty pink skirt though; it brings those squarish skirts into the 2010s, at least. Add some tights, a cute t-shirt, and your favorite pinky boots to make sure your date knows you’re absolutely the toughest girly-girl on the block. 

4 Easy Autumn Outfits Perfect for October

4 Easy Autumn Outfits | Writing Between Pauses

To really kick off blogtober, what better than to post some gorgeous Autumn outfits? 

The thing I look most forward to every year when it comes to Fall is finally being able to wear my flannel shirts, sweaters, and huge collection of boot socks every single day. It really doesn’t get better than that to me! I decided to round up some of my favorite Autumn outfits from around Polyvore to show off some of this year’s best trends. (And pssst, I made all of these ones!) 

1. Cozy Grandma

The hippest grandma you’ve ever seen! I’m a sucker for a cozy cardigan and you can find ones like this for great prices at Maurices right now. Add in a flouncy floral skirt, an easy tank top or t-shirt, and your favorite oxford heels (I know these are a little 2012, but I still think they’re cute!). As it gets colder, you can add black tights, a heavier undershirt, and your favorite coat to keep the cuteness going. 

2. Colorblock & Jeans 

This may be called A Winter Day, but it works for a breezy Fall day too. I love a color blocked sweatshirt; you can find similar ones here and here. Add in your favorite skinny jeans rolled up over some cute boots for a very punk 80s feel and you’ve got yourself a cute outfit for milling around the house, going out to lunch, or going to the pumpkin patch. 

3. Jumper Madness 

Listen: I love these overall skirts. I love them. I own two. That’s right: two. This one is originally from Topshop, but you can find a similar, all black one here. Add a cozy long sleeve (or a turtleneck!), some cute flats, and your favorite bag and you’ll rock that 1970s Autumnal university student vibe. 

4. Sweater Dress

I’m obsessed with this sweater dress, but unfortunately, it’s sold out. I found some other, equally cute dress options here, here, and here, but none that really fall into that “chunky knit, baggy sweater dress in a perfect mustard yellow” niche. (But trust me when I say, watch this space, because I will find a better sweater dress option!) Pair with some cozy over-the-knee socks and your favorite pair of booties, and this is such a cute date outfit, it actually makes me want to plan an Autumn date ASAP. 

Do you have a favorite Autumn outfit? Share with me in the comments! 

5 Casual Summer Outfits That Are Perfect for Vacation

It's June! That means summer has arrived and we're all anxiously looking forward to vacation (hopefully...) I know for me, my upcoming vacation felt like a Very Big Deal. I haven't talked about it much, but I've been working on losing weight the last few months; I've managed to shed over 15 pounds, as far as I can estimate, which is a big deal. I'm below my pre-pregnancy weight and I finally feel like clothes look like clothes on me again. 

For that reason, I ~splurged~ and actually bought three new shirts for my vacation. That's right, three shirts and a new pair of $10 Forever 21 jeans is a splurge these days. Oi vei. 

Here are 5 outfits that will be perfect for any summer holiday, regardless of where you're going. 

1. The Disney Outfit

The secret is out: I'm going to Disneyland for my vacation. What can I say? It's my favorite place. This is a perfect outfit for Disneyland: comfy top, comfy jeans, small purse. I don't recommend flip flops; your feet will kill at the end of the day, but some cushioned Vans or sneakers would look cute too. Cool, casual, totally easy. 

2. The Tropical Outfit

If you're the lucky soul who gets to go somewhere sandy and sunny for vacation, well then, this is the outfit for you. A pretty patterned dress will keep you cool and will look great over your bikini. Interesting sandals, sunglasses, and a simply lipstick will mean good Instagram photos. 

3. The Road Trip Outfit

You're going to be in the car, on the move, for a long period of time. Comfy jeans, a pretty hat, and a loose top are perfect. A patterned top is perfect for the car because, if you're like me, you'll spill something on yourself inevitably (or, um, your toddler will launch a juice into the front seat). Comfy flats and simple accessories mean you'll look cute along the way too. 

4. The Explorer Outfit

So you're going to your dream city: Austin, Texas, or New York City, or Los Angeles. This outfit is for you. Comfy, cool, and very hip, you'll fit in. A cute patterned dress, a comfy cardigan (because I always like to have my arms covered), a roomy bag, and some quirky shoes. 

5. The Stay-Cation Outfit

You're harumphing through this post because, harumph, you don't get to go on vacation! Don't worry; this is my first summer vacation in, seriously, six or seven years. If you're staying at home, or maybe just traveling to visit family, you can still get a special outfit. This outfit is perfect for staying at home, going out on the town, or visiting family: a simple, tank top dress topped with your favorite cozy flannel and paired with some killer boots (if you're feeling a little gothy) or some plain black flats or sandals (if you're not feeling so gothy). 

5 Polyvore Sets for Valentine’s Day Inspiration

Valentine’s Day is almost here. Here’s the thing: I love Valentine’s Day. I love the color scheme. I love the kitschy vibe. I love the candy. 

I don’t care if you think it is commercialized as hell. (I mean, you’re totally right.) I enjoy it regardless. Me and my closest thousands of friends. If you need more information regarding this, please see this tweet.

Alright, now that that’s out of the way, let’s talk what we’re going to wear. I picked 5 Polyvore sets to help us get in the mood for Valentine’s Day fashion. Let’s check it out! 

1. If you love sticking to the theme

Classic Valentine’s Day theme: red and white everything. I’ve seen some super cute graphic print tops and sweaters lately (like this one from the GAP or this one from Torrid), as well as some white hot red skirts (like this one from Forever 21). Add some cute red shoes & Valentine’s Day-themed accessories and you’ve got one super Instagrammable outfit. Seriously, take a photo. 

2. If You Hate Red

“Valentine’s Day is great. Except I hate red.” Sound familiar? That’s you. Or maybe you just love this outfit as much as I do. Ok, it’s not Valentine-y in the slightly. But it’s cute. It’s comfortable. And you’ll stay warm in it. (Is it as cold where you are as it is here in Oregon? Brrr!) Pair a classic preppy striped sweater with your favorite jeans, some cute loafers, and a killer coat for a Valentine’s Day outfit that says, “Fall in love with me because I’m always chic.” 

3. If you’re a little vintage 

You think outside the box. That’s for sure. Pair a cute, classic floral print dress (I love this one with a Peter Pan collar or this one) with an interesting, structured jacket, cute loafers, and fun accessories. You’ll be anything by boring. 

4. If you work from home

“But I don’t leave the house! Most of the time…” you think, as you scroll through these outfits. Hey, fellow bloggers, this outfit is for you. You’ll notice it’s also definitely not stereotypically Valentine-y either. But I think it’s plenty romantic. Pair your favorite jeans with a romantic sweater (the one picture is sold out, but I like this one from Nordstrom Rack too) and a comfy scarf, as well as some super cute booties. You’ll look perfectly romantic & perfectly put together—without being too frilly for getting everything done. 

5. If you love pink 

 

Pink isn’t everyone’s favorite color. But I’m betting it is yours. This outfit is for the girl who loves pink. A pink dress is a pretty standard wardrobe staple (and you can wear them hundreds of ways). I like this ribbed knit dress from Forever 21 and this peach number from Lulu’s for a fancier evening. Pair with flats and a cute jacket (I love this floral print bomber jacket) for a day out with friends… or just another day at the office. 

5 Outfits for Late Winter Inspiration

We're at that time of the year where, if you're like me, you've been cycling through the same few tops and jeans. I have 4 outfits that I wear in rotation. That's boring! But as the winter wears on, it's hard to feel inspired, especially if you're saving your money (like I am!) for Spring. 

I thought I'd share some Polyvore sets to help us all be a little bit more inspired with our late Winter style. I went with sets that included items we all probably have (especially if you, like me, are a minor hoarder that has saved multiple years worth of trends). Here we go! 

1. Go Full Christmas

Once Christmas passes, I tend to set aside my fair isle sweaters and beanie hats. I don't know why! I always feel like the time for them is over. But this set is really making me question that decision! A cozy fair isle paired with coordinated beanie & scarf and topped with your usual winter coat is an easy, cute outfit. Totally Instagram worthy, to be honest. 

2. Change the Color Palette

Have you been wearing black for four weeks straight? Listen, me too. That's probably why I'm loving this outfit. I really want a top in this dark, cognac color now! Paired with an olive, military jacket (I am in the firm belief that everyone owns one--mine, embarrassingly, is maternity!) and some leopard print (!!) booties... it's an almost-neutral outfit that just brightens up the late winter, right? 

3. Pretend You're French

The minute I saw this outfit, I swooned a little. That top! That skirt! Add some black tights and maybe replace the heels with your trustiest knee high boots, top with a coat... it's late Winter, but it's not boring. You can also pretend that you're walking through Paris, ala Carrie Bradshaw, and feel very fancy while doing it. 

4. Treat Yourself to Something Lovely

A striped dress is a total staple. A floral print coat? Um, not so much. But let's be real... it's gorgeous. And it's perfect alongside a striped dress, or plain top and jeans. I know I said these outfits only included items most people would have anyway... well, that was a teeny tiny lie. I want to live the life of someone who just happens to have an extremely fashionable coat lying around! 

In fairness, a striped dress paired with a cardigan and a floral print scarf will be just as cute--and just springy enough to get us through February without losing our minds. 

5. Redo Your Denim

Nothing--I repeat, nothing--is as classic as a denim jacket. I love this outfit: the unique denim jacket, the gray jeans, the flowy, pretty top, the suede booties. Totally gorgeous, top to bottom. I don't own a denim jacket like that, but I do own a pair of gray jeans; I do own a floaty top; and I do have some boots that fit the bill. Why did I never think to put them all together before? Rookie move! 

Well, are you feeling inspired? What's getting you through this long, late Winter days?